David Lee Hensley

David Lee Hensley was born on June 30, 1947 in Newport News, VA to Albert and Dorothy Hensley (Ervin). A short ten months later his sister Alona was born. The family moved to Seguin, Texas where his father served in the Air Force.

At the age of 17, David enlisted in the United States Army. David served three tours of duty in Vietnam, earning numerous medals and recognitions. These included the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the National Defense Medal. In addition to his time spent in combat, David served as a Radio Operator, Team Chief, Instructor, and Platoon Sergeant. Towards the end of his military career, David made his way to Michigan when he was assigned to work as a recruiter in Southwest Detroit. He ultimately worked his way up to First Sergeant, a title he was very proud of. David had an accomplished twenty year career in the military before retiring.

David enjoyed genealogy, shooting, working on his house, riding his Harley trike, taking his side-by-side out on the trails, and spending time at his local VFWs and American Legions. Known as “Sarge,” he had a sharp wit and liked to joke that even Jack Nicholson in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest couldn’t hold a candle to him. A proud Texan, he often explained the origins of “Don’t mess with Texas,” sharing its history with friends, family, and strangers. David was part of many groups and organizations, including: the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, National Rifle Association, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Masons.

In his fifties, David went back to school, earning excellent grades and a place on the Dean’s List. He seemed to enjoy the attention of being the oldest student in class. David earned a bachelor’s in Human Services at Lake Superior State University. He was also working towards a master’s in Social Work at Northern Michigan University. David spent some time working at a Salvation Army Rehabilitation Camp in Iowa, an experience he found to be very rewarding.

The decision to go to Lake Superior State, is what first brought David to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He eventually ended up in Champion, Michigan, a place he would call home for nearly sixteen years. It was here that he met the love of his life, Evelyn Stanaway, who he affectionately referred to as his “sweetie.” Ev brought out the best in David. David made many friends in Champion, including those at the VFW, American Legion, and the Beacon Club.

David was predeceased by his mother, father, sister, step-parents, stepbrother and his “sweetie.” He will be remembered by his three daughters and many grandchildren.

The family of David Hensley would like to say a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Michigan Veterans’ Home in Chesterfield, MI. They provided exceptional care for David in his last years of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a memorial donation to the Michigan Veterans’ Home of Chesterfield, MI or the Michigan Alzheimer’s Association.